Virtual FACS Day at the Capitol Brings Together Leaders from Across the State
The annual Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) Day at the Capitol was held virtually on February 11, 2021.
Attendees included students, alumni, faculty and staff from the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Family and Consumer Sciences, UGA Extension, the Georgia Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (GAFCS), the UGA Office of Government Relations, and several other state and local agencies.
The event began with a welcome from FACS Dean, Linda Kirk Fox, who presented the Family and Consumer Sciences day proclamation and resolutions. Prior to the virtual event, Governor Kemp signed a proclamation designating February 11th as Family and Consumer Sciences Day in Georgia.
Following the welcome, guests joined interactive sessions hosted by UGA students participating in the Legislative Aide Leadership Fellows Program, the UGA Office of Government Relations, and partners of Family and Consumer Sciences. The Legislative Aide Leadership Fellows provided insight into their experiences at the Capitol and answered questions related to the program. Legislative Aide Chloe Freeman stated “FACS Day at the Capitol was a fantastic opportunity to showcase my work to the FACS community. It was so empowering to share with my people how we are effectively assisting our state Senators.”
Grant Thomas from the UGA Office of Government Relations updated attendees on legislative work with the Capitol. Partners of Family and Consumer Sciences including UGA Extension, the Georgia Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) connected with students, alumni, and staff to discuss opportunities that Family and Consumer Sciences can offer. Panelist and UGA FACS Alumni Linsey Shockley reflected on her session stating- “I really enjoyed participating in the panel during FACS Day at the Capitol! I wish I would have had the same opportunity as a student. It is so important to know who and how to get involved with professional organizations at a young age. Current professional members can help guide college students in the right direction that can benefit them in their future career.”
Although the event was virtual, attendees participated in trivia games to ‘tour’ the Capitol building. The event concluded with a facilitated discussion of key takeaways and networking opportunities.
Student Olivia Sawyer noted “Virtual FACS Fay at the Capitol was a fantastic learning experience…and I definitely recommend FACS Day at the Capitol to all FACS students and faculty.” We look forward to continuing our annual event and we are excited for the next opportunity to visit the Capitol in Atlanta.
For more information on the FACS Legislative Aide Leadership Fellows program, click here.
Save the date for the next FACS Day at the Capitol to be held on February 10, 2022.